Some areas in north Kent could be getting more 20mph zones a lot sooner than expected as a report is being drafted by the county council.

Mike Whiting, cabinet member for transport, has asked KCC officers to prepare a report based on new government research which was released last month.

At the moment, KCC does fund 20mph zones but there is no set funding for these and each location is assessed based on evidence and potential benefit.

Minster for transport Jesse Norman wrote to local councils noting that 20mph schemes can improve the quality of life for communities and can also encourage people to use healthier, more sustainable modes of transport, such as walking or cycling.

Mr Whiting said the report will look into whether KCC can change the way in which roads are selected for speed limit changes.

"There is evidence that 20mph schemes encourage healthier transport choices such as walking and cycling. Research in Bristol found increases in levels of walking and cycling of over 20 per cent," he said.

Last month, this newspaper reported that campaigners from the Dartford Safer Roads campaign were appealing for 20mph streets following an incident where a schoolgirl was knocked down outside Oakfield Primary school on November 13.

Labour councillor for Stone Parish Council, Mandy Garford, is a member of the Dartford Safer Roads group and brought up the need for these schemes at a council meeting in October.

Speaking on KCC's announcement, Cllr Garford said that she is hoping that further action will be taken.

"Having campaigned locally to reduce speeds and created Safer Roads I am pleased that KCC are looking further at this.

"It is a step in the right direction and I hope that KCC and DBC will take note of any evidence and conclusions. I think it’s important we see action not just words," she said.

In Dartford, a working group comprised of representatives from Dartford Council, KCC, Kent Fire and Rescue, Kent police, local schools and the Dartford Safer Roads group has already been working on implementing a wide range of road safety measures for Dartford schools, including 20mph zones.